Former Chinese premier Li Keqiang dies of heart attack

21 Sept 03:15 Key points summarised by AI

Former Chinese premier Li Keqiang died at age 68 from a sudden heart attack in Shanghai, as reported by state media.
A reform-minded bureaucrat, Li served as premier for 10 years under President Xi Jinping, having once been considered a future leader.
During his tenure, he advocated for economic reforms but faced limitations due to Xi's overwhelming authority, which concentrated power and led to a slowdown in China's economic growth.
Despite challenges, Li was praised for navigating China through the global financial crisis and maintained a positive outlook on the economy in his final address.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

19 Oct 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.